The roar of the crowd, the smell of popcorn, the shared gasp and giggle in a darkened theater – few experiences match the magic of a great animated film. If 2024 reminded us just how potent that magic can be, with three animated features landing among the top five highest-grossing films in the U.S., then get ready: Animated Sequels, Prequels, and Spinoffs 2025 are poised to continue that legacy, offering a comforting blend of familiar favorites and exciting new adventures. From beloved characters making triumphant returns to fresh takes on established universes, the upcoming year promises a rich tapestry of animated storytelling that will appeal to every taste.
This isn't just a year for new stories; it's a celebration of continuing sagas, expanding worlds, and the enduring power of characters we've come to know and love. Whether you're a long-time fan or looking for your next family obsession, 2025's animated slate offers something truly special.
At a Glance: Your 2025 Animation Playbook
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick overview of what to expect from the animated world in 2025:
- A Strong Showing: Following 2024's box office success, 2025 is stacked with highly anticipated animated releases, both theatrical and streaming.
- Franchise Power: Expect a significant number of sequels, prequels, and spinoffs featuring returning characters from beloved franchises like Wallace & Gromit, Zootopia, The Bad Guys, The Smurfs, and SpongeBob SquarePants.
- Netflix's Big Bet: The streaming giant is making a major play in animation, leading the pack with seven releases, including its first Korean-language animated film.
- Diverse Offerings: Beyond the familiar, look out for unique original expressions from studios like Pixar (Elio), Laika (Wildwood), and the return of a master animator, Sylvain Chomet.
- Theatrical & Streaming: While many films have set theatrical dates, keep an eye on streaming platforms, as the landscape for animated releases remains dynamic.
The Irresistible Pull of Animated Storytelling
Why do we keep coming back to animation? It's more than just a genre; it's a medium limited only by imagination. Animation allows for visual flair, emotional depth, and narrative freedom that live-action often struggles to replicate. From the intricate stop-motion of Aardman to the stunning CG of Dreamworks and Pixar, each film offers a unique artistic vision. In an increasingly complex world, these stories, whether grand epics or intimate tales, provide a vital space for wonder, reflection, and shared experience. They transport us, challenge us, and often, remind us of our own humanity.
The success of animated features in 2024, driving significant theater attendance, wasn't a fluke. It underscored a fundamental truth: great animation connects. And as you explore 2025 animated movies, you'll see a clear commitment to delivering more of that captivating magic. This trend of engaging storytelling, often leveraging established narratives, defines much of the upcoming year's slate.
Expanding Universes: Your Guide to 2025's Animated Sequels, Prequels, and Spinoffs
The heart of 2025's animated offerings lies in its rich array of continuations and expansions. These films build on existing lore, bring back cherished characters, and invite us deeper into worlds we thought we knew. Let���s break down the exciting lineup:
January: Kicking Off the Year with Familiar Faces
January bursts onto the scene with a couple of highly anticipated franchise extensions, setting a high bar for the year ahead.
- Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (January 3, Netflix): The return of the iconic duo, Wallace and Gromit, is always cause for celebration, but this time it's particularly intriguing. Directors Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham (Aardman Animations) bring back the nefarious penguin Feathers McGraw, a fan-favorite villain, in what promises to be an ambitious stop-motion masterpiece. With Aardman's signature witty script and joyful execution, this film also takes a timely jab at the ills of AI, proving that even claymation can tackle modern dilemmas. Ben Whitehead, Peter Kay, and Reece Shearsmith lend their voices to this charmingly British adventure. If you've ever delighted in the ingenious contraptions and silent heroism of Gromit, this is a must-see.
- Dog Man (January 31, Universal Pictures): Fans of Dav Pilkey's beloved Captain Underpants series will be thrilled to learn about Dog Man, a spin-off from Dreamworks Animation. Directed by Peter Hastings, this film introduces us to the titular crimefighter, a quirky hero created from the fusion of a police dog and an officer after a fateful injury. With a voice cast that includes Peter Hastings himself, Pete Davidson, Lil Rel Howery, Isla Fisher, and Ricky Gervais, expect plenty of laughs and heart as Dog Man navigates his unique brand of justice. It’s a vibrant, fast-paced world that captures the anarchic spirit of Pilkey's books.
February: Fantasy and Fowl Play
February offers a distinct flavor of animated extensions, delving into high fantasy and classic cartoon antics.
- The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep (February 11, Netflix): For enthusiasts of Andrzej Sapkowski’s sprawling fantasy world, The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep is a welcome addition. This second standalone anime adventure for Geralt of Rivia, directed by Kang Hei Chul (Studio Mir), adapts Sapkowski’s short story “A Little Sacrifice.” Geralt finds himself in a seaside village, investigating mysterious attacks and quickly becoming entangled in an ancient conflict between humans and merpeople. With Doug Cockle returning as the voice of Geralt, alongside Joey Batey and Anya Chalotra, this anime promises the dark, mature storytelling and intricate lore that fans have come to expect from The Witcher universe.
- The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie (February 28, Ketchup Entertainment): Classic cartoon fans, rejoice! Director Pete Browngardt (Warner Bros. Animation) brings back the iconic duo of Porky Pig and Daffy Duck in a feature-length adventure. When Earth faces an alien invasion, these two unlikely heroes become humanity's last hope. Featuring the legendary voice talents of Eric Bauza, Candi Milo, Peter MacNicol, and Wayne Knight, this film promises the slapstick humor, rapid-fire gags, and timeless charm that have made Looney Tunes a cultural cornerstone for generations.
July: A Smurfy Musical Reimagining
Mid-summer will bring a fresh take on a global phenomenon, appealing to a new generation while respecting its roots.
- Untitled Smurfs Musical (July 18, Paramount Pictures): Get ready for a reboot that's both a musical and a return to form for The Smurfs. Directors Chris Miller and Matt Landon (Paramount Animation, Nickelodeon Movies) are aesthetically basing this film on Peyo's original comic works, promising a visually faithful interpretation. The star-studded voice cast is a major draw, with Rihanna, Nick Offerman, James Corden, Octavia Spencer, Hannah Waddingham, Kurt Russell, and John Goodman lending their talents. This musical aims to reinvent the Smurfs for a modern audience while honoring the charm of the little blue creatures.
August: The Bad Guys Are Back
The summer continues with a highly anticipated sequel from a beloved studio, bringing back a gang of reformed criminals for one last job.
- The Bad Guys 2 (August 1, Universal Pictures): Director Pierre Perifel (Dreamworks Animation) returns with the sequel to the critically acclaimed The Bad Guys. Picking up after the first film, our "Good Guys" are pulled out of retirement for "one last job," but with a twist: they're facing off against an all-female squad of criminals, the Bad Girls. The original voice cast, including Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, and Awkwafina, is joined by new talents like Danielle Brooks, Natasha Lyonne, Maria Bakalova, and Zazie Beetz. Expect the same stylish animation, sharp wit, and unexpected heart that made the first film a hit.
November: Familiar Worlds, New Cases
As the year winds down, November delivers two powerhouse sequels that promise to revisit fan-favorite worlds with new challenges.
- Zootopia 2 (November 26, Walt Disney Studios): Detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are back! Directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard (Walt Disney Animation Studios) promise a thrilling new case for the dynamic duo in Zootopia 2. This time, they go undercover in Marsh Market to crack a mystery involving a cryptic reptile. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman return as the voices of Judy and Nick, joined by new cast members like Ke Huy Quan, Fortune Feimster, and Shakira. Prepare for more sharp social commentary, clever world-building, and the undeniable chemistry that made the original Zootopia a modern Disney classic.
- David (November 21, Angel Studios): From Angel Studios, the creative force behind other faith-based successes, comes David, an animated film centered on the biblical prophet and King David. While not a direct sequel in a traditional sense, it builds on a long history of spiritual storytelling and provides a familiar narrative for audiences seeking faith-focused content. Directors Phil Cunningham and Brent Dawes aim to bring this powerful story to life with depth and resonance.
December: Underwater Adventures and Woodland Whimsy
The holiday season gets festive with a beloved yellow sponge and a classic bear, both expanding their cinematic universes.
- The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants (December 19, Paramount Pictures): Get ready to dive back into Bikini Bottom! Director Derek Drymon (Nickelodeon Movies) brings us the fourth theatrical film for SpongeBob SquarePants. This time, SpongeBob faces off against the legendary Davy Jones’ locker-dwelling villain, The Flying Dutchman. The iconic voice cast, including Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown, Rodger Bumpass, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, and Mr. Lawrence, returns, joined by the incomparable Mark Hamill. Expect the same surreal humor, heartfelt moments, and infectious energy that has made SpongeBob a global phenomenon for decades.
- A Hundred Acre Christmas (December 25, Amazon): With Winnie-the-Pooh now in the public domain, Amazon presents a new Christmas tale featuring the beloved bear and his friends. This film offers a fresh interpretation of the classic characters, allowing for new stories and creative directions without being beholden to previous adaptations. While director and voice cast details are still under wraps, the potential for a heartwarming holiday story with Pooh and company is undeniable, offering a comforting dose of nostalgia for many.
Undated for 2025: More Familiar Faces and Worlds
Several more films are slated for 2025 that either expand existing narratives or revisit cherished characters, with their exact release dates still to be announced.
- Plankton: The Movie (Netflix): Another exciting development from the SpongeBob SquarePants universe, this Netflix exclusive centers on the diminutive villain Plankton and his grand goal of world domination. Directed by Dave Needham, it promises to give fans a deeper, and undoubtedly hilarious, look into the life and schemes of SpongeBob's arch-nemesis. This spinoff is sure to be a hit with fans of the franchise.
- The Twits (Netflix): Roald Dahl's darkly humorous tale, The Twits, gets a new animated adaptation from Netflix. Directors Phil Johnston, Katie Shanahan, and Todd Kunjan Demong (Jellyfish Pictures) bring to life Mr. and Mrs. Twit, mean individuals who run the disgusting amusement park Twitlandia. When they rise to power, two orphans and magical animals must outsmart them to save the city. This adaptation promises to capture the anarchic spirit and grotesque charm of Dahl's original work.
Beyond the Horizon: Intriguing Originals and Adaptations
While sequels and spinoffs dominate the conversation around familiar favorites, 2025 also brings a fascinating array of original stories and fresh adaptations. These films push the boundaries of animation, introduce new characters, and explore diverse themes, ensuring the medium remains vibrant and innovative.
Bold New Visions
- The Colors Within (January 24, GKIDS): Director Naoko Yamada (Science Saru) delivers a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film. It follows Totsuko, a teenage girl with synesthesia, who experiences emotions as vibrant, symbolic colors. As she navigates self-doubt and seeks connection, her inner world is externalized in a truly unique way.
- Elio (June 13, Walt Disney Studios): Pixar Animation Studios, under directors Domee Shi, Madeline Sharafian, and Adrian Molina, introduces us to Elio. A space fanatic, Elio is accidentally beamed to the Communiverse, mistaken for Earth’s leader. He must form bonds with eccentric aliens, navigate a cosmic crisis, and discover his true self. Featuring Yonas Kibreab, Jameela Jamil, Brad Garrett, Zoe Saldaña, and Shirley Henderson, Elio promises Pixar’s signature blend of humor and heart.
- Sneaks (April 18, Briarcliff Entertainment): Director Rob Edwards makes his directorial debut with this original story about a designer sneaker's adventure across New York City in search of his sister. With a voice cast including Anthony Mackie, Martin Lawrence, Laurence Fishburne, Chloe Bailey, and Mustard, Sneaks offers a fresh premise with a vibrant urban backdrop.
- Night of the Zoopocalypse (March 7, Viva Pictures): Directors Ricardo Curtis and Rodrigo Perez-Castro present a highly stylized CG, horror-lite feature. After a meteor unleashes a virus turning zoo animals into zombies, a mountain lion and wolf lead a team of survivors to stop the virus and rescue their zoo. This promises a unique genre blend for animated audiences.
- Wildwood (Laika Entertainment): From the acclaimed stop-motion studio Laika, director Travis Knight adapts the novel by Colin Meloy and illustrated by Carson Ellis. When Prue McKeel's baby brother Mac is kidnapped by crows led by Alexandra, she and her best friend Curtis are drawn into a hidden, magical forest known as Wildwood. Laika's films are renowned for their breathtaking artistry and captivating narratives, and Wildwood is sure to continue that tradition.
- The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol (Sony Pictures Classics): Visionary director Sylvain Chomet returns with an emotional exploration of the life of French writer Marcel Pagnol. Set in 1955, Pagnol revisits his past with a magical manifestation of his younger self. Chomet's distinctive animation style is always a highlight, and this promises a poignant, visually rich cinematic experience.
Global Voices and Genre Blends
- In Your Dreams (Netflix Animation): Directors Alex Woo and Erik Benson bring a comedy adventure about siblings Stevie and Elliot, who magically travel into the world of dreams to find the Sandman and save their parents’ marriage.
- K-Pop: Demon Hunters (working title, Netflix): Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans deliver an original musical action-adventure where a K-Pop girl group balances their public lives with secret identities as demon hunters.
- Lost in Starlight (Netflix): Director Han Ji-won brings Netflix’s first Korean-language animated film. Astronaut Nan-young and musician Jay embark on a long-distance relationship bridging Earth and Mars. Voice cast includes Kim Tae-ri and Hong Kyung.
- Pookoo (Netflix): Director Nathan Greno presents a buddy comedy about a small woodland creature and a majestic bird (natural enemies) on an adventure.
- The Great History of Western Philosophy (Undistributed): Director Aria Covamonas creates a Mexican meta-comedy inspired by Lacanian theory. Using digital cutout animation and public domain footage, it tells the story of an animator facing a death sentence for creating a philosophical film for Chairman Mao, finding escape with Journey to the West characters Monkey and Pigsy.
Faith-Based Narratives
- The King of Kings (April 11, Angel Studios): Loosely inspired by Charles Dickens’ “The Life of Our Lord,” this film uses Dickens and his son Walter as characters to tell the story of Jesus Christ from a Christian perspective. The impressive voice cast includes Kenneth Branagh, Oscar Isaac, Ben Kingsley, Mark Hamill, Uma Thurman, Forest Whitaker, and Pierce Brosnan.
- Light of the World (September 5, Salvation Poem Project): Directors Tom Bancroft and John J. Schafer present a 2D animated musical centered on the life of Jesus Christ, told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John.
Acclaimed Adaptations
- Animal Farm (Undated, Imaginarium Productions): Director Andy Serkis adapts George Orwell’s timeless 1945 novella. Production has been completed, signaling an imminent release for this highly anticipated, darker animated feature.
- Decorado (Undated, Abano Producions, Uniko): Director Alberto Vázquez expands his short film into an "existential fable" about love and friendship, featuring anthropomorphic animal characters in the city of Anywhere.
- Grand Prix of Europe (Undated, Viva Kids): A film tie-in for Europa-Park's 50th anniversary, this film from director Waldemar Fast follows a young mouse, Edda, who disguises herself as her idol Ed to compete in the Grand Prix and save her family’s amusement park.
Navigating the Release Calendar: What to Expect and How to Stay Up-to-Date
One of the most dynamic aspects of the film industry, especially for animated features, is the ever-shifting release calendar. While the dates we've listed are current, they are always subject to change. Factors like production schedules, studio strategies, and competitive landscapes can influence when a film ultimately hits screens or streams.
Tips for the Discerning Viewer:
- Bookmark Key Resources: Keep an eye on the official websites of major studios (Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks, Laika, Aardman) and streaming platforms (Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video).
- Follow Industry News: Reputable film news sites and animation-focused blogs are often the first to report on schedule adjustments.
- Set Reminders: Use your calendar app or streaming service wishlists to get alerts closer to anticipated release dates.
- Consider the Platform: Remember that theatrical releases often precede streaming availability. Decide if you prefer the big-screen experience or the convenience of home viewing.
The blend of theatrical and streaming releases in 2025 reflects the evolving way we consume entertainment. Netflix's strong slate, for instance, offers immediate access to a wide variety of new and ongoing animated stories, making it easier than ever to catch up on favorites or discover new ones.
The Enduring Appeal of Animated Universes
2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for animation, particularly for those who cherish the opportunity to revisit familiar characters and explore known worlds. The abundance of animated sequels, prequels, and spinoffs isn't just about nostalgia; it’s a testament to the power of well-crafted stories and beloved characters that resonate across generations.
These films offer a unique comfort, a chance to reconnect with narratives that have shaped our childhoods or become new family traditions. They allow creators to delve deeper into established lore, develop characters further, and explore new facets of a universe that fans already love. This continuity, combined with innovative animation techniques and compelling voice talent, ensures that these extensions are not just rehashes but genuine evolutions.
Moreover, the sheer variety within this category—from stop-motion British charm to high-stakes fantasy anime, from musical reboots to beloved underwater capers—demonstrates the incredible versatility and broad appeal of animated franchises.
Your 2025 Animated Viewing Plan
With such a rich and varied slate of animated films, particularly in the realm of sequels, prequels, and spinoffs, 2025 promises a year full of delightful viewing experiences. Whether you're planning family movie nights, eager for a solo adventure into a familiar fantasy realm, or simply curious about the next big thing in animation, there's no shortage of options.
Take some time to mark your calendars, gather your viewing companions, and prepare for a year where animation continues to prove itself as a dominant and deeply resonant form of storytelling. From the big screen to the comfort of your couch, get ready to dive into the animated worlds that will capture our imaginations in 2025.